In an welcome news for Canadian air travellers, there is no need to worry about a strike by WestJet unionized mechanics, at least not for now.
The Canada Industrial Relations Board said it needed more time and submissions from each party before deciding whether to create a collective agreement via binding arbitration, as proposed by WestJet earlier this week.
That request to the labour tribunal prompted a 72-hour strike notice from the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association on Monday evening.
In a latest development, the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) has rescinded the strike notice that had been set for the evening of 20JUN. The union and management have agreed to return to the bargaining table.
WestJet said the move prevents any further flight cancellations. But it appears that 13 flights were scrapped on 20JUN, affecting thousands of passengers.
Those 13 cancellations are in addition to the 40 flights cancelled on 18JUN and 19JUN, which affected some 6,500 passengers.
"We recognize the impact the initial cancellations had on our guests and our people, and we sincerely appreciate their patience and understanding during this time," said WestJet president Diederik Pen.
"In returning to the bargaining table, we are committed to finding a resolution to avoid further disruption to our operations."
Talks between the mechanics’ union and airline management are scheduled to begin anew the week of 24JUN. Earlier, the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, which represents some 670 aircraft maintenance engineers and other skilled-trade positions at the carrier, said it made the decision after WestJet cut off talks this week.
WestJet has asked the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to intervene with binding arbitration, which would see the labour tribunal hammer out a contract between the two sides. The board has the power to ban a work stoppage by the mechanics union.
“The CIRB has advised it will require additional time and submissions from both parties before making a decision on whether or not collective bargaining for our first agreement should be resolved by way of arbitration,” WestJet said in a statement.
The CBC says the union, whose members voted overwhelmingly to reject a tentative agreement with WestJet last week, opposes binding arbitration because it would undermine its goal of an "industry-changing contract."
WestJet's announcement read that it’s working to resume normal operations as quickly and efficiently as possible while ensuring the highest degree of safety. However it encouraged the travellers to continue checking the status of their flights before departing for the airport.
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